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NIH Faces Scrutiny for Funding New Dog Tests Despite Pledge to Reduce Animal Research
Earlier this year, the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced an initiative to reduce animal testing and invest in βhuman-based technologiesβ such as organ-on-a-chip systems, AI tools, and clinical data modeling. The move was celebrated as a major step toward more humane, human-relevant science.
Riverβs Rescue: From Stranded Stray to Forever Home
What began as a routine water safety trip on the Cuyahoga River quickly turned into a story of courage, compassion, and second chances.
On Wednesday morning, city staff and water crews set out for an educational trip. But the lesson that day wasnβt just about safetyβit was about humanity. Crew member Bill Bratton spotted something unusual in the water: a small dog wedged against a steel piling, soaked, shivering, and struggling to survive.
75 Animals Rescued from Ashtabula Hoarding Case
The Ashtabula County Animal Protective League (ACAPL) is facing one of its most heartbreaking and overwhelming rescues to date. Earlier this month, a tip about inhumane conditions led to the removal of 72 cats and three dogs from two homes deemed βbiohazardsβ by authorities.
Human Bones and Hundreds of Animals Found in Stark County Home
The community of Canton, Ohio, is reeling after investigators uncovered a disturbing scene inside a home on Wertz Avenue. Following a tip from an animal rescue group, authorities executed a search warrant and discovered over 250 living rats, 100 deceased rats, dogs, turtles, and birdsβall living among piles of filth, feces, and urine. Even more shocking, a box containing human bones was found inside.
Mexico City Leading the Change in Animal Laws
Last month, Mexico City revised their civil code to elevate animalβs legal status from property to sentient beings. This seemingly small change has massive implications for our furry friends. Under the new law, every person has the obligation to respect the lives of animals and ensure their care. This means that they are no longer considered βthings,β but living, breathing beings with both basic needs and loving care.
NIH to Phase Out Funding for Dog and Cat Testing
In a groundbreaking shift, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has announced plans to phase out extramural grant funding for experiments involving dogs and cats. This decision comes after years of advocacy from animal welfare groups, including the White Coat Waste Project, and marks a major step toward more humane science.
Justice for Leonidas: Strengthening Ohioβs Animal Cruelty Laws
The tragic death of Leonidas, a dog from Warren, Ohio, is another painful reminder of why stronger protections for animals are urgently needed.
Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to Dogfighting
On August 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice announced that Joel Brown, 38, of Franklin County, Ohio, pleaded guilty to federal dogfighting and drug crimes.
OAA Book of the Month: A Dog Named 647 by Nancy Kay
Some books break your heart. Others ignite it. Dr. Nancy Kayβs middle-grade novel A Dog Named 647 manages to do both. Inspired by the hidden world of puppy mills, this story follows twelve-year-old Mia, who discovers an emaciated retriever identified only as 647. What begins as one girlβs encounter with a neglected dog quickly unfolds into a journey of courage, friendship, and activism.
False Report Leads to Tragic Dog Shooting in Madison Township
On the morning of July 21, law enforcement officers responded to a false emergency call in Madison Township. The caller falsely claimed that a βgrandmaβ had been shot in the kitchen of a home on the 3300 block of South Hamilton Road, near Hott Road.
Ohio Attorney General Sues Former Service Dog Charity
On July 29, 2025, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced that his office has filed a lawsuit against a now-defunct nonprofit and its former executive director, alleging that more than $25,000 in charitable donations were misused for personal expenses.
The PUPP Act: Keeping Families and Pets Together
Hundreds of thousands of Americans experience homelessness every year. For many, their greatest source of comfort and unconditional love is their pet. Sadly, too many unhoused individuals face a heartbreaking choice: seek shelter and give up their beloved companionβor remain on the streets together.
βWe can change the world and make it a better place. It is in your hands to make a difference.β
β Nelson Mandela